pickleball swing check/learn/short return
Why is my pickleball return of serve so short?
Updated October 2026 · 2-minute read
Your pickleball return of serve is short because you're not taking a full enough swing or aiming deep. To fix this, take a fuller swing and aim a few feet inside the opponent's baseline. Then, quickly move up to the kitchen line.
How to tell
- Opponents rush the net easily.
- Your return lands near the service line.
- You feel rushed after hitting your return.
- Opponents hit aggressive third shots.
Why it matters
A deep return gives you more time to reach the kitchen line. It forces your opponents back, making their third shot harder. This puts you in a strong position to control the point.
The fix
- Fuller Swing. Take a longer, more complete swing through the ball. Don't just push it.
- Aim Deep. Target a few feet inside the opponent's baseline. Hit it with purpose.
- Move Up. After contact, immediately move forward to the kitchen line.
One cue makes it click: Swing long, aim deep, move fast.
2-minute drill
Practice this simple drill at home or on court to improve your deep returns.
- Stand at the baseline. Practice a full, smooth swing motion.
- Visualize hitting the ball deep, a few feet inside the opponent's baseline.
- Immediately after your shadow swing, shuffle forward to the kitchen line.
Check yours in 10 seconds
Not sure if it's you? Film a 10-second shadow swing and the free Pickleball Swing Check will tell you — it gives you one thing to work on.